Missing April Jones: Search Goes through the Night

Police looking for April Jones have confirmed they will continue their search despite bad weather, encouraged byreceiving more than 2,500 calls from members of the public.

Supt Ian John said he was "very heartened" at the public support to help find the five-year-old, who went missing on Monday while playing near her home in Machynlleth in Mid Wales. Police officers from all 44 forces in the UK are helping sift through the information.

John confirmed that the extensive search would continue despite heavy rain.

He said: "A massive police-led search has continued thoughout the day in Machynlleth and will continue throughout the night regardless of the weather.

"We are utilising eight specialist police search teams, led by five specialist police advisers with the support of the national police search centre."

John also thanked those who had helped the police search teams. "I've had the privilege of going over there and thanking them for the support they're giving in this difficult operation," he said.

Earlier, April's 16-year-old sister made an emotional appeal for the five-year-old to return home safely.